As winter sidles into view, we must admit that we miss the beauty buzz of the warmer months. Rich bronzers, zesty fragrances and undone hair take centre stage. while during winter we're all just fighting a losing battle with chapped lips and perilously dry skin.
But, lets look on the bright side! Now is the perfect time to revamp your manicure and rethink your nail repertoire, by leaning into deep jewel tones and shimmery festive detailing. Rich and unctuous, chocolate brown is all over the runways right now, from Brandon Maxwell to Fendi. Hungry for more? This sweet, super-satisfying colour trend has trickled down into our nail choices.
"Clients have been loving warm browns and earthy shades," says senior nail artist Rani Narayan of Shoreditch Nails. "A glossy shade of brown is a great alternative to black for that iconic moody mani look as we enter the cooler months."
Red wine reds also made an appearance on the AW24 catwalks at Leonard Paris, while Di Petsa's models sported razor sharp shapes in pearlescent shades. Meanwhile, PatBO subverted the french manicure, with nude glossy nails topped off with black tips.
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Grown-up Glitter
© Instagram / @betina_goldsteinSubtle and sparkly, this look is the perfect choice if you're after an understated wash of glitter.
Nature Strong Nail Lacquer, Mind Full Of Glitter
OPI
OPI Nature Strong is OPI's first natural origin nail varnish and can always be relied upon for fantastic shades with a long lasting high shine finish. We adore this gold glitter.
Chocolate Brown
© Instagram / @paintedbyjoolsRich and enticing, this shiny brown manicure is giving major hot chocolate vibes.
Oxygenated Nail Lacquer
Nailberry
Nailberry's toxin free L’Oxygéné nail polishes consider the health of your future nails, and this rich coco shade looks good enough to eat (but please don't).
Holly Berries
© Instagram / @diynails._Incorporate some Christmas foliage into your nail repertoire and try out a design featuring holly berries layered over a metallic shade.
Mulled Wine
© Instagram / @amyburvillnailsDeep and berry-like, this beautiful red feels elegant and slightly vampy.
Nail Polish - 50 Bordeaux
essie
A deep rich burgundy in a chip resistant formula, reminiscent of our favourite time of year.
Emerald Green
© Instagram / @overgloweditVerdant and sophisticated, this emerald green look is a great way of showing your festive spirit if your approach is more minimal.
Les Mains Hermès, Nail polish, Vert Écossais
Hermès
For the person who can't be boujie enough in all areas of their life, may we present Hermès nail varnish in the most perfect jewel tone.
Santa Baby Scarlet
© Instagram / @paintedbyjoolsFestive and joyful, you can't beat a vibrant orange-based red for a hit of Christmas glam.
Wondercolour™ Nail Polish (Most Red)
Beauty Pie
The cheeriest red we ever did see, courtesy of cult beauty brand Beauty Pie and we love the breathable, coconut-infused formula.
Rich Mocha
© Mocha / @byeleanoroharaIf you like chocolate brown but are in the mood for something moodier, consider incorporating mocha into your nail colour library.
Cool-girl Chrome
© Instagram / @like_my_nails_londonThis pink chrome look feels girlish and luxe, and we're totally into the pearlescent ring pairing.
Plan de Paris Collection Dior Vernis Gel Nail Polish - 001 30 Montaigne
Dior
Any of Dior's couture-inspired shades will ramp up the glamour in your outfits and the gel-effect formula will keep your nails from damage.
Cosy Khaki
© Instagram / @paintedby_didiWe adore earthy khaki all year round, but for winter it feels particularly lovely, especially when paired with a fluffy faux fur coat.
Opal Dream
© Instagram / @isabelmaynailsThe inimitable iridescence of opal is one of the main reasons why the precious gemstone is so adored, and we love how this manicure look captures that quality perfectly.
Glitter Gradient
© Instagram / @lolo.naileditIt wouldn't be the festive period without a shower of glitz, and this multi-tone glitter look feels a little bit different to the usual.
Copper French Tips
© Instagram / @withdanielle_The return of the French manicure was one of 2023's most unexpected nail trends, but there's no need to remain wedded to traditional white.
Diamond Luxe Nail Paint Cascading DLNP1
Barry M
We have a soft spot in our hearts for Barry M nail varnishes, the most fun colours and finishes for a very sweet price point.
Cable Knit Cosiness
© Instagram / @learnahstarbuck_nailartistThis super cute, knit-inspired look is giving major winter warmth - ideal if you're wanting to keep things minimal.
How we chose:
- Style and theme: We've scoured the internet''s top sites for the best quality nail varnishes this season.
- Price: We looked across a wide range of price points for quality varnishes to suit a range of budgets.
Why you should trust me:
Working in fashion is simultaneously the best and worst thing that’s ever happened to me because spending all day surrounded by gorgeous pieces and trends lit a fire under my (already substantial) shopping and beauty habit. I love to shop. I live to shop. In a previous life, I worked in Personal Shopping, and I’m the person to take out with you if you want to be wholeheartedly talked into a purchase.
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